Discover the 1,400-Year History and Unique Craft of Kumihimo in Japan Japanese Kumihimo (braided cords) have a history of 1,400 years since they were introduced from mainland China. After their introduction, Kumihimo developed into a unique craft unlike anything else in the world. The techniques for creating intricate and delicate designs within a single, thin cord have been perfected over the centuries. Kumihimo has become deeply embedded in Japanese culture, used to tie things together, secure clothing, and as decorative elements for items like samurai swords. The Unique Art of Kumihimo: Crafting Intricate Designs from a Single Line The most distinctive feature of Kumihimo is its ability to create one-dimensional lines. While paintings and textiles are two-dimensional and architecture and sculptures are three-dimensional, Kumihimo is a craft that produces the most primitive and universal form: a single line. However, when viewed more closely, this single line contains countless interwoven threads. For example, an average obijime (a cord used to tie an obi) consists of more than 50,000 silk threads. These threads create multiple layered structures that ultimately form a single cord. The Art of Kumihimo: Endless Expressions Through Centuries of Craftsmanship and Innovation Furthermore, by utilizing dyeing techniques such as "Dansome" and "O-bokashi," and braiding techniques like "Kirikae" and "Ayadashi," a single cord can exhibit an infinite variety of expressions. Dansome (段染め): A dyeing technique where parts of the thread are dyed with a resist applied. Unlike O-bokashi, the colors change with clear boundaries. O-bokashi (大暈し): A dyeing technique where the color density gradually changes from the base color to the target color. The dye is gradually diluted, and the threads are dyed repeatedly while shifting the position to create a beautiful gradient. Over the 1,400 years since its introduction to Japan, countless unnamed Kumihimo artisans have engaged in various trials and errors, making the craft increasingly complex and sophisticated. The Kumihimo we see today is the result of this long history and the artisans' relentless experimentation. Create Your Own Kumihimo Strap at Domyo Workshop in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku: A Perfect Souvenir and Cherished Memory Why not try a Kumihimo-making experience at the "Domyo" workshop in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku? The Kumihimo strap you create can be used in your daily life, and its beauty will surely enrich your everyday experiences. It will undoubtedly make a perfect souvenir and a cherished memory of your trip to Japan. Book Experience Kumihimo Braiding Clothing Rental (Samue or Outdoor Wear) How to Access Kagurazaka The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.
